BASUREK CLOTH

Kain basurek, (literally "handwritten cloth") was usually used to cover a dead body. Kain basurek is believed to ward off evil. Its main motif is Arabic calligraphy, displaying stars, the name of "Allah", and the double edged weapon known as ‘Zulfikar's sword’ which had been used by Sayyidina Ali, in the center panel. A kain basurek is created with Using technique, using natural dye derived from indigo leaves to create its dark blue color. Kain basurek is also called ‘Arabic batik’ because of the distinctly Arabian influence on its motifs.